Free Tramlink This Weekend

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Getting the full service back on track

Tramlink services from Wimbledon will be free this weekend to encourage people to use local shops along the line after last week's rioting.

The tram's tracks and overhead wiring were destroyed by the serious unrest in Croydon and the full service wasn't restored until Friday (August 12).

One of the most iconic buildings involved in last week's troubles - the Reeves furniture store in Croydon - has a tramstop (Reeves Corner) named after it.

During a visit to Croydon, London Mayor Boris Johnson announced that all Tramlink services will be free this Saturday and Sunday (August 20-21).

Mr Johnson said: "London Tramlink is the life force which keeps Croydon's economy healthy and as such it is a symbol of this town's refusal to be cowed by the actions of mindless thugs.

"To help residents and business people get their town up and running again our engineers have pulled out all the stops to get full tram service running reliable and safely."

It follows the launch of his £50 million regeneration fund to help make major long-term improvements to the capital's damaged town centres and high streets.

August 15, 2011